Oshawa residents will now have priority access to their local waterfront, as the city has officially announced the launch of a paid parking program for non-residents. After previously rejecting similar staff recommendations last year, the city has finalized a plan that aims to “improve parking availability during busy periods, reduce congestion, and support ongoing maintenance” of the highly popular Lakeview Park and Ed Broadbent Waterfront Park.
Free for Residents, Costly for Out-of-Towners
The primary focus of the new paid parking program is to ensure that Oshawa residents have a dedicated space to enjoy the millions of dollars in infrastructure improvements the city has made over the years. To maintain free access, residents must register their vehicles through the city’s website for a Waterfront Parking Permit. These permits are tied to an Oshawa address and must be renewed annually.
For non-residents—including those traveling from Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, and Clarington—the costs are significant. Vehicles without a valid permit will be required to pay a flat rate of $20 per day on:
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Weekends: Every Saturday and Sunday from May 15 to October 15.
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Public Holidays: Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day, and Thanksgiving Day.
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Special Events: During all city-led events at the waterfront.
Payments can be made through on-site parking meters or via the HonkMobile app, which is available on both Apple and Google Play stores.
The “Tough Love” Behind the Move
Local Councillor Brian Nicholson has been a vocal advocate for these changes, citing years of frustration from Oshawa families who found themselves unable to use their own parks. According to Nicholson, the waterfront was frequently jammed with out-of-towners who arrived early to claim all available picnic tables and parking spots, leaving little room for local taxpayers.
“We love this park,” Nicholson stated during the planning phases. “But we also need tough love for Lakeview Park. If you abuse our park, there will be consequences.” By implementing the paid parking program, Oshawa follows the lead of Ajax and Pickering, both of which have seen improved congestion control after introducing similar non-resident fees.
How to Register Your Vehicle
Registration for the Waterfront Parking Permit is open now. Oshawa residents can complete the process online at oshawa.ca/WaterfrontParking or in person at Service Oshawa during regular business hours.
With Whitby also currently considering a paid parking program for its own waterfront this season, the shift toward resident-only free parking is becoming the new standard across the Durham Region. For families in Clarington and Scugog who enjoy the Oshawa beaches, this summer will require a bit more planning—and potentially a $20 fee—to secure a spot by the lake.
